World No. 1 Ash Barty has shocked the sporting world today, announcing her retirement from professional tennis.
Barty announced the decision through a video on Instagram on Wednesday afternoon, explaining her decision to retire to fans. In the video, she said she has given “absolutely everything I can to this beautiful sport of tennis and I’m really happy with that and for me, that is my success”.
She noted that she felt fulfilled having won Wimbledon last year, and to follow that up with her recent Australian Open win, was the icing on the cake for her career.
“Today is difficult and filled with emotion for me as I announce my retirement from tennis,” Barty wrote on Instagram.
“I wasn’t sure how to share this news with you so I asked my good friend @caseydellacqua to help me. I am so thankful for everything this sport has given me and leave feeling proud and fulfilled.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way, I’ll always be grateful for the lifelong memories we created together.”
Barty will retire at age 25 having held the World No. 1 ranking for two years. She has won three grand slams including Wimbledon, the French Open and the Australian Open.
“Ash Barty with her signature backhand slice complemenmted by being the ultimate competitor, has always led by example through unwavering professionalism and sportsmanship she brought to every match,” WTA CEO Steve Simon said shortly after Barty made the announcement.
“She has clearly established herself as one of the great champions of the WTA.
“We wish Ash the best and know she will continue to be a great ambassador of the sport.”